Jägersauce (Traditional German Hunter’s Sauce) – Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Spätzle

Jägersauce (Traditional German Hunter’s Sauce) is a classic, creamy mushroom sauce beloved in German cuisine—perfect for serving over Spätzle, schnitzel, or roasted meats. This rich sauce features sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a touch of cream for authentic flavor and comfort.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 8 oz (about 2 cups) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, or use more broth)
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8–10 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2. Make the Roux:
   Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Deglaze and Simmer:
   Add the white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in the tomato paste. Add the broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
4. Finish with Cream:
   Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for another 3–5 minutes until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Stir in the chopped parsley.
5. Serve:
   Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over Spätzle, schnitzel, or your favorite German main dish. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Tips & FAQ

• Can I make this ahead? Yes! Jägersauce reheats well. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• What mushrooms work best? Cremini, white button, or a mix of wild mushrooms all work well.
• Is this sauce gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend to thicken if needed.
• What else can I serve this with? Try it over mashed potatoes, pork chops, or roasted vegetables.

Looking for more German recipes? Check out our German recipe collection!